One of the most essential systems in a rental property is the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. Not only is the HVAC system tasked with keeping your tenants comfortable all year, but it also adds to the longevity of your property. Since it is such a significant system, it’s important to be familiar with the most common issues that might happen – and how to address them. To streamline this for busy investors like you, we’ve incorporated a rundown of the top 10 HVAC issues and their solutions.
Blocked Registers and Vents
If your tenants complain about inefficient heating or cooling in the rental home, you should initially inspect whether the registers and vents are impeded. Furniture, home décor, and storage boxes can all obstruct registers and vents, generating airflow issues. By clearing the area around each vent and register, you can improve how your HVAC system functions.
Dirty Filters
Another common issue with HVAC systems is that filters are not frequently changed. HVAC filters assist with maintaining the proper air circulation by keeping debris and dust out of your ducts and equipment. If the filter gets blocked by dust, the HVAC system will have to work harder to heat or cool the home, and interior components may also be damaged. The fix here is simple: ensure that the filter is being changed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. While numerous systems require a new filter every three months or so, some systems may need the filters replaced as often as once a month.
Obstructed Condenser Unit
One of the most common reasons an HVAC system starts to lose efficiency is because leaves and debris have gathered around the unit, blocking the condenser. An obstructed condenser unit can make your HVAC unit overheat, ultimately damaging it. To address the problem, clear the area around your HVAC unit, including any leaves or debris that may be sticking to the outside.
Dirty Coils
An HVAC system depends on condenser coils to work appropriately like the condenser. When the coils get dirty, the HVAC system cannot keep good airflow, and your unit may overheat. Consequently, it’s fundamental to have your condenser coils cleaned consistently, about once or twice a year.
Dirty or Leaky Ducts
If your HVAC filters are not changed consistently, dust can build up in the ductwork, limiting the airflow space. In older houses, it’s even possible for ducts to become dirty or leaky because of rodents, insects, or cracks and holes. Any of these issues will reduce airflow and make your HVAC system less efficient. To guarantee that your ducting isn’t the source of the issue, make certain to have it inspected and cleaned whenever needed.
Slow Blower Fan
All HVAC systems utilize one or more blower fans to move air throughout the rental house. If a blower fan is faulty, it can cause airflow issues and make your HVAC system much less effectual. Over time, fans can break down or become coated in grime. The answer to a slow blower fan is to have it inspected and either cleaned or replaced as soon as the issue is recognized.
Leaking Refrigerant
If your HVAC system is older (or has not been kept very well previously), you may have a refrigerant leak. Leaking refrigerant can result in reduced cooling and airflow problems. Normally, the issues develop slowly as the refrigerant gradually leaks out. To address the issue, meticulously inspect and repair your unit with a qualified HVAC technician.
Faulty Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat can make it hard to maintain a comfortable temperature in the house while making your HVAC unit work harder than it should. If your HVAC unit is inspected and you can’t track down any problems, inspect and replace your thermostat before thinking you need to replace your entire system.
Wrong Size Unit
Units that are too small won’t heat and cool your property efficiently, while units that are too large will often cycle on and off too frequently, causing stuffy interiors and high humidity levels. To address the problem, have an HVAC expert assess your heating and cooling needs and endorse whether you need to replace your current unit with one the correct size for your rental property.
Outdated HVAC System
At last, another standard HVAC system issue is that the unit or the ductwork is old or obsolete. This is particularly common in older homes that have been refurbished, essentially if the HVAC system, ducting, and the rest of the house aren’t updated. To improve the airflow of your HVAC unit, ask an expert about updating your ductwork. Little adjustment could end up making a huge impact.
Numerous normal issues with HVAC systems can be evaded simply by having regular, professional maintenance done every year. However, remembering to schedule HVAC maintenance can be difficult when so many other tasks are competing for your time. Instead, why not assign the care and maintenance of your rental properties to the experts in Parrish and nearby? Real Property Management Horizons is ready to help you maximize your rental income. To find out more, contact us online or at 941-313-3373 now!
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
